Monday, 29 February 2016

If you ever doubt why you should head outside for that walk, or why you should bother taking that camping trip, or you just want some inspiration, read on:

1) Time alone with your thoughts

When these days do you actually have time to think about yourself, and only yourself? Or even better, think of nothing? Whether it's work, kids, chores or something else, we all seem to be so busy these days. Putting some time aside to enjoy the outdoors gives you a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, escape the business or stresses at home and relax for a bit. Whether it's a day or a week, it's refreshing to forget about the everyday life stresses and just embrace and enjoy the moment.

Monday, 22 February 2016

This is quite a throwback post indeed. I wanted to write something showing off our beautiful islands here in Scotland, but in all honesty, I haven't been to many of them (at least not as an adult)! I'm hoping to adventure on a couple this year, so look out for them, but for now, I wanted to write about my trip to Tiree - back in 2010!

*Proof that you do not need a fancy camera to show the beauty of the beaches of Tiree*

Monday, 15 February 2016

This was a strange, yet very fun experience: Christmas in Perth, WA. I have to be honest, I was very apprehensive - Christmas is my favourite time of year, and it just didn't seem right without playing in the snow, or wrapping up in scarves and gloves! And it was the first Christmas spent not visiting my Mum too! But it was a very pleasant surprise.

Monday, 8 February 2016

I love cities. The hustle-and-bustle, the crowds, the street performers and ordering Chinese food to your house at 3am. But they can get quite overwhelming, especially for a country bumpkin like me. As I've mentioned multiple times, I grew up right on the water and love the fresh air and freedom of the quiet countryside. So for someone like me living in a city, it's important to know where my nearest city escape is. Most cities have one, whether it's hills, or the beach or just a really big quiet park, and I think everyone enjoys a little break from it all sometimes.

Edinburgh has quite a few city escapes - with the most famous probably being Arthurs Seat. Situated right next to Holyrood, in student-central and not far from the High Street, it's literally a stones throw away from the busy, tourist-filled Old Town. I actually wish I spent more time up Arthurs Seat to be honest. I've spent two bonfire nights up there, where you can watch numerous firework displays around the city for free. You might not be particularly close to a display, but it's a perfect option. Saying that, if you get there early enough you can get a pretty good view of the Meadowbank display, but you've got to claim your spot!

Monday, 1 February 2016

The debate between which is "better" between a campsite or wild camping is always an ongoing debate. I've read various different wild camping blogs that slag off the use of campsites, and equally there's articles out there of the opposite view.

Personally, I believe both are still camping, but they have their own benefits and drawbacks. I think they are almost incomparable, simply because they offer very different experiences of camping. Each individual has their own wishes when it comes to camping, and I think, depending on personal preferences, the folk you're camping with and, quite frankly, what you're feeling at the time can change which would be the best option. Below are my top considerations when trying to decide between the two. Hopefully if you're a bit stuck between the two options, this might give you a little help!

1) Looking for a challenge or an adventure?

Of course if you are staying in a campsite you can still have adventures outside of your tent! But the thrill of a wild camping adventure is one that cannot be compared. You have the freedom to choose whatever you wish, and it can be a great adventure choosing a spot to call your own for the night. Everything from getting a fire going, to adventuring out to the toilet can be an adventure! Dealing with the weather with no pub or shared-area to turn to can be an adventure too. But obviously, if you'd rather have a little less to think about and more options if the weather should turn or should you forget an item, you may prefer to stick to the campsites. Read here about our adventure getting lost on our first wild camping trip as a couple.